This is about a 30+ yr. careear volunteer firefighter and his battle with terminal lung cancer stage 4 .
John was a volunteer firefighter/emt with the Federal Way and Depoe Bay (Or.) fire depts. for a combination of over 30 years.
He thrived on helping others and founded a training center called Depoe Bay CTC 17 years ago, which teaches CPR/ First Aid for the American Heart Assn.
Continuing his passion of helping others, he volunteered for many community organizations in Depoe Bay Or. where he lived for over 20 yrs. until he moved to Wa. in August of 09 in hopes of a new start, and a new job as the economy worsened in Oregon.
They found a place to live near their family in Washington that they were able to afford.(Living on their social security) Settling in and now on a mission to find a job and support his medically needy wife of 30+ years and their special needs grandson, whom they've raised since he was a year old (11 now) after his mom was unable to care for him, he had high hopes at age 67 to get a job. Well that failed, and he resorted to the state for help for food and medical needs for Jordan and Bonnie and himself.
He found out about his cancer about 3 weeks ago and is now faced with chemo treatments, radiation and a miriad of doctor appts for he and his family.
We as his family have helped them as long as we could and continue to help in other ways, being as much support as we can.
John being a prideful man, couldn't bear the thought of leaving his family without support and care they need, and so his brother and myself took it upon ourselves to start fund raising and asking for donations to help someone who has given so much of his life to helping others. We have a bank account now open for donations at any West Coast Bank branch in the name of :John Slinkard Fund.
Most needed is cash and gas cards. If anyone out there can help this family out by holding a fundraiser of some type the family would be forever greatful especially at this time of year.
Luther and Linda Slinkard aprls@comcast.net
360 459-1052 for any questions.
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